Authentic Korean Bamseogi Recipe: A Delightful Chicken Dish

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, around 1.5 kilograms
2 liters of water
1 large onion, peeled and halved
6 cloves of garlic, crushed
2 thick slices of fresh ginger
2 green onions, cut into 2 inch pieces
1 Korean radish (mu), about 300 grams
1 small leek, cleaned and cut into large pieces
2-3 dried jujubes (Korean dates)
10-15 ginkgo nuts
1 tablespoon of sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of sesame oil for brushing
Soy sauce for dipping (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Steps and instructions

Clean the chicken thoroughly, inside and out, under cold running water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
Place the chicken in a large pot. Add the water, onion, garlic, ginger, green onions, radish, leek, jujubes, and ginkgo nuts. Cover the pot.
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the broth is flavorful.
While the chicken is simmering, skim off any foam or impurities that float to the surface of the broth.
After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool down a bit. Then, brush it with sesame oil and sprinkle it with sea salt and black pepper.
Strain the broth, discarding the solids. Season the broth with additional salt, if necessary.
Carve the chicken into serving pieces. Serve it with the hot broth, soy sauce for dipping, and chopped green onions for garnish, if desired.
Enjoy Bamseogi with hot steamed rice and kimchi on the side.

Tools for making

Large pot - A pot large enough to hold the chicken and the other ingredients with ample space for boiling.
Strainer - A fine mesh strainer to strain the broth and remove any solids.
Paper towels - To dry the chicken after washing.
Brush - A brush for brushing sesame oil onto the cooked chicken.
Knife - A sharp knife for carving the chicken into serving pieces.
Soup ladle - A ladle for serving the hot broth.

Recipe variations

Use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken for a different texture and flavor.
Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the broth for extra depth of flavor.
Include Korean glass noodles (dangmyeon) in the soup for a heartier version.
Replace the chicken with pork or beef for a different meat option.
Make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. Add tofu or tempeh for protein.
Add gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) or gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) to the broth for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different herbs and spices like bay leaves, star anise, or cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or crushed roasted peanuts for added crunch.
Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for a tangy and refreshing accompaniment.

Recipe overview

Bamseogi is a traditional Korean dish that consists of a whole chicken simmered with a variety of aromatic ingredients. This hearty, wholesome dish creates a flavorful broth that's infused with the essences of garlic, ginger, and other bold ingredients. The chicken is delightfully tender, making it a satisfying main course. This simple, yet delicious recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Expect a combination of soulful, comforting flavors that will make you feel at home, no matter where you are! Enjoy your Bamseogi with a side of steamed rice and kimchi for a quintessential Korean meal.

Common questions

Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken? Yes, you can use chicken parts such as drumsticks or thighs instead of a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for Korean radish (mu)? If you can't find Korean radish, you can use daikon radish as a substitute. They have a similar flavor and texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the broth? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor of the broth. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the broth in advance? Yes, you can make the broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.
What can I serve with Bamseogi? Bamseogi is often served with hot steamed rice and kimchi. You can also enjoy it with other side dishes like pickled radish or seasoned vegetables.
Is soy sauce necessary for dipping? No, soy sauce is optional. Some people enjoy dipping the chicken in soy sauce for added flavor, but it is not necessary.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to simmer the chicken and prepare the flavorful broth.
Paper towels - Paper towels are useful for drying the chicken after cleaning.
Brush - A brush is needed for brushing the chicken with sesame oil.
Strainer - A strainer is required for straining the broth and removing any solids.
Carving knife - A carving knife is helpful for carving the cooked chicken into serving pieces.
Soup bowls - Soup bowls are ideal for serving the hot Bamseogi broth and chicken.
Soup spoons - Soup spoons are necessary for enjoying the broth and chicken.
Optional: Soy sauce dish - If using soy sauce for dipping, a small dish is useful for serving it.
Optional: Chopping board - A chopping board may be required for chopping green onions for garnish.

Origin stories

Bamseogi, a beloved dish from the Korean peninsula, has a deep-rooted history that traces back to the royal cuisine of the Joseon Dynasty. The meticulous preparation and dedicated cooking process of this dish reflects the philosophy of the Joseon era's gastronomy, which emphasized harmony and balance. Interestingly, Bamseogi was synonymous with hospitality and was often served to esteemed guests as a gesture of warmth and welcome. It was considered a symbol of prosperity and well-being, which accounts for its enduring popularity in Korean households, especially during festive occasions and traditional ceremonies. The wholesome simplicity and nourishing qualities of Bamseogi echo the Korean saying, 'bap-eun bab', which roughly translates to 'food is medicine', underscoring the integral role of food in maintaining health and well-being in Korean culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.